Alberta leads in access to high speed internet

The Redford government has achieved its goal of bringing high-speed internet access to more than 98 per cent of Alberta households.

That means more students can research school projects; businesses can link to new markets; and more families can connect with relatives around the world using the World Wide Web.

“From the creation of the SuperNet to the Final Mile, Alberta has ensured a level playing field for all of its citizens, no matter where they live. It opens new markets, invests in families and communities and sets the stage for continued prosperity.”

- Manmeet S. Bhullar, Minister of Service Alberta

The 98 per cent target was set by Premier Redford in November 2011 when she directed the Ministers of Service Alberta and Agriculture and Rural Development to come up with a plan to connect more rural households.

Under the Final Mile Rural Connectivity Initiative, high-speed satellite services were provided to remote and sparsely populated regions of Alberta where fibre optic cable may not have been feasible. $5.1 million was provided to 23 projects through the Final Mile Rural Community Program to help cover the infrastructure costs associated with enhancing access to rural Albertans.

“If you live in the remote reaches of our province, getting connected can make a big difference in your life. You can run a business, earn a degree, access health care or stay in touch with family. I expect that rural Albertans will take full advantage of all of these opportunities and more.”

- Verlyn Olson, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development

“Connectivity is the key to young people mapping out a future in the new rural frontier. The future is young people living in rural communities; working remotely, running online businesses, connecting on a global scale, embracing social media and redefining the world around us.”

The Government of Alberta will continue to monitor the expansion of services across the province and work with Internet service providers to maintain accurate service coverage information for Albertans.

Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta's resources to ensure we're able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.